Bearing Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 RAM 1500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The axle shaft, differential and pinion bearings can all produce noise when worn or damaged. Bearing noise can be either a whining, or a growling sound.

Pinion bearings have a constant-pitch noise. This noise changes only with vehicle speed. Pinion bearing noise will be higher pitched because it rotates at a faster rate. Drive the vehicle and load the differential. If bearing noise occurs, the rear pinion bearing is the source of the noise. If the bearing noise is heard during a coast, the front pinion bearing is the source.

Differential bearings usually produce a low pitch noise. Differential bearing noise is similar to pinion bearing noise. The pitch of differential bearing noise is also constant and varies only with vehicle speed.

Axle/Output shaft bearings produce noise and vibration when worn or damaged. The noise generally will be constant with bearings loaded or unloaded. Where axle/output bearing damage is slight, the noise is usually not noticeable at speeds above 30 m.p.h.

Intermediate shaft bearings produce noise when worn or damaged. The noise will changes when the axle is in disconnect. Road test the vehicle and actuate the disconnect. This will load the bearings and change the noise level. Where axle bearing damage is slight, the noise is usually not noticeable at speeds above 30 m.p.h.